Candle Holders

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With their diminutive size and simple shape, votive candles look spectacular in a variety of different styles of holders. If you're looking for an easy and affordable way to update the look of a room, there are… Keep reading »

Whether your candles are practical or decorative, ceremonial or stylish, there are candle holders to make them easier, safer, and more lovely to use.

Using Candle Holders

Properly used, candle holders can minimize the mess from melted wax and are safer than burning candles on potentially unstable or flammable surfaces. Some candles come with built in holders, such as jar or hurricane candles, though many candle aficionados prefer to select stylish and decorative holders to showcase their candles with elegance and beauty.

Types of Candle Holders

There are several types of holders to choose from based on the type of candle and the purpose for its use. Popular styles include:

Sleeves: These may be straight or curved glass pillars that enclose candles and keep drafts from extinguishing the flames. Sleeves may have a base or may be designed to coordinate with other candle holders.

Centerpieces: Candle centerpieces may incorporate flowers, pebbles, figurines, platforms, tiers, or other accents to turn simple candles into lovely decorations. Many centerpieces are designed for seasonal use, such as holly or evergreen candle centerpieces for the holidays.

Plain: Plain candle holders are simple and functional. They may be small cups, trays, or dishes designed to hold tea lights, votives, or pillar candles. Their simplicity can coordinate well with any décor.

Bowls: Floating candles are best displayed in bowl holders so they can float serenely as a decorative accent.

Jars: Jar candles have built in holders, or smaller jars may be designed to hold tea light or votive holders. Many jars are designed as hanging candle holders to hang from trees, hooks, or pillars for more unusual displays.

Candelabras: A candelabra is a decorative stand to hold one or more taper candles, though some candelabra designs also work with pillar or votive candles. These are generally very ornate, distinctive candle holders.

Candle Sticks: Single candles can be displayed in decorative candle sticks with patterns and designs similar to candelabras. Wrought iron candle holders are often designed as simple sticks.

Sconces: A sconce is a candle holder designed to be hung, typically attached to a wall. They can be simple or elaborate designs, and many sconces include hanging elements or mirrors for more visual interest.

Using Holders

For the safest use, follow these candle holder tips:

Use appropriately sized holders to minimize any wax runoff.

Holders should be stable and balanced so they do not tip and cause a fire hazard.

Place holders out of reach of children and pets and away from flammable objects such as house plants, draperies, and other decorations.

Secure candles to open holders with a drip or two of wax or by securing the candle on the holder's spike if available.

Holders will heat up as candles burn; handle them with care to prevent injuries.

Do not leave a burning candle unattended.

With appropriate use, candle holders can be lovely accessories to showcase any type of candles.